Questions for a Third Interview Conference Call

by Lisa McQuerrey

Make sure you have a good connection so you'll come across loud and clear.

Being asked to participate in a third interview conference call is a positive sign you're a serious contender for the position you're seeking. The conference call will likely involve upper-level executives asking you final interview questions, and it has a good chance of concluding with a formal job offer. Be ready to not only respond to queries, but to ask intelligent questions about the company, both to establish yourself as a professional and to ensure the job really is a good fit for you.

Questions to Expect

Even though you've probably already talked to several different people in the company, the conference call will likely involve department executives as well as the hiring manager or human resources professional you already interviewed with. Even if you've answered the same question numerous times, respond with enthusiasm to everything you’re asked. Plan to summarize your work history and your education, and to talk about why you want to work for the company. Give concrete examples of what attracts you to the job and what skills you bring to the position you're seeking.

Questions to Ask

The third interview is a time for you to ask questions as well as answer them. Clarify anything you don't understand about the responsibilities of the position, including to whom you will report, who you would supervise, and what the short and long-term expectations of the role are. Inquire about how you'll be evaluated, what priorities exist for the position and what your manager will expect you to accomplish during the first several months on the job. Also ask about opportunities for mentoring, professional growth and advancement within the company. These questions show you’re future-focused and ambitious.

Salary Negotiation

There's a good chance someone on your interview call will bring up the topic of compensation. Don't be the first one to broach the subject, and try to avoid talk of money until an official job offer is extended. If you’re pressed to give a figure, go with a range that allows you room for negotiation. For example, if you want $50,000 per year, but would accept $45,000, ask for $52,000 with the knowledge you can negotiate down. Be prepared with salary stats to back up your request. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to learn about average salaries for many different industries.

Conference Call Tips

Conference calls can be tricky because it’s often difficult to hear -- especially if you're talking to multiple parties without being able to see them. This is especially challenging if you haven't met people in person or have been able to place voices with faces. To make a good impression, clarify who is asking a question before responding, and use each individual’s name when addressing a question or responding to a query. Don't be shy about asking someone to repeat a question, so that you have a firm understanding of the information being exchanged.

Resources

About the Author

Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.